TV hopefuls turn out for 'Chicago PD' casting call in St. Charles

Hundreds of TV hopefuls attended an open casting call Sunday in St. Charles for chance to appear as background actors on the upcoming NBC police drama “Chicago PD.”

The show, a spinoff of the NBC show “Chicago Fire,” will be filmed in the Chicago area and utilize real police and fire personnel when possible to bring authenticity. Bill Marinella, casting director for background talent, said he will need thousands of background actors over the next few months as filming of the new show continues ahead of its scheduled premiere date in January.

Among the hopefuls Sunday were current and retired police officers and at least one four-legged actor, “Chester,” a yellow lab/Shar Pei mix who came with Toni Kuner of Lake in the Hills.

Retired Addison police officer Steve Orlowski showed up in full uniform. He said he learned of the casting call during a recent performance with his band. Someone in the crowd told him he looked like a cop and should go to the casting call.

Although background actors won't get rich off their work — they'll receive about $100 for a 12-hour day — Marinella said this is an opportunity for people who always wanted to be on TV to “kick it if off the bucket list.”

Marinella said he was pleased to see a diverse group of people that was very reflective of Chicago show up to the casting call.

Anyone unable to attend Sunday but interested in appearing on the show can email their photo, full name, cellphone number and full measurements for possible costumes, including height and weight, to chitownpd@gmail.com.